Sandy Aid Went to Projects Far from Storm

Millions of dollars in federal housing aid meant for victims of Hurricane Sandy went to projects in counties far removed from those areas most impacted by the storm, an analysis of state data shows.

Nearly a third of the money — $47.6 million, earmarked for new affordable housing projects — landed in Essex and Middlesex counties, while many hard-hit Jersey Shore communities in Ocean saw relatively little of it.

The affordable housing program has come under sharp focus in recent weeks after questions were raised over the awarding of more than $10 million in grants involving at least two projects that appeared to have political overtones. In both cases, Gov. Chris Christie gained endorsements after the money was allocated in two communities barely brushed by the storm.